Mental health myths
We’ve pulled together some common myths about mental health – and the truth behind them to help you separate fact from fiction…
Mental health problems continue to be a growing concern in the UK. However, there is still a lack of understanding and information out there surrounding our mental wellbeing. We thought we’d debunk some of the more common myths.
Myth 1: Mental health problems are rare
This is not true. Mental health problems are widespread and can affect a variety of people from every walk of life. Statistics show that 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year - with mixed anxiety and depression being the most common mental disorder in Britain. Find out more by visiting the Mental Health Foundation website.
Myth 2: Asking for help with mental health problems is a sign of weakness
Getting help if you are suffering with mental health problems is crucial and talking about your symptoms is the first step in getting the help you need. Anyone can suffer with a mental health issue and so it’s important to openly discuss symptoms which you are experiencing.
Myth 3: You can’t recover from a mental health illness
Incorrect. You can recover from a mental health illness and many people do. Treatment and recovery are ongoing processes that happen over a period of time and the first step on the road to recovery is getting the help you need. With serious mental health problems, finding ways of managing your condition is important – getting better may not necessarily mean going back to how your life was before the illness but finding ways to take control of certain areas of your life. Read more about recovery from mental health charity Mind.
Myth 4: There is no discrimination against people with mental health problems
Whilst attitudes about mental health problems are improving – particularly with the help of charities and other organisations raising awareness of the issues involved, individuals can still face discrimination. A survey by Time to Change showed that almost nine out of ten people with mental health problems (87%) reported the negative impact of stigma and discrimination on their lives.
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Myth 5: Children don’t experience mental health illnesses
According to the Mental Health Foundation, approximately one in ten children and young people are affected by mental health problems. This can include depression, anxiety and conduct disorder - and can often be as a direct response to what is happening in their lives (such as school stress or bullying.)
There are a range of different people you can speak to if you feel your child may be suffering from a mental health condition – for example, a school nurse, school counsellor or educational psychologist may be able to help. Alternatively, your GP will be able to advise and may refer your child for further help.
Myth 6: You can’t work with a mental health illness
Incorrect. People with mental health problems can be just as productive as other employees. Whilst starting work, staying in work or returning to work after a period of mental ill-health can be difficult, it’s not impossible, and there can be many benefits to working. For example, it may give an opportunity to make new friends, improve your financial security and give you a greater sense of identity and purpose.
If you’re unemployed and want to get back into work, the staff at your local Job Centre, your GP or your mental health worker can all give you advice on the subject.
Myth 7: Therapy and self-help are a waste of time – just take medication
Treatment for mental health problems can vary depending on the individual and could include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
Self-help therapy (such as self-help books or computer counselling) can have some advantages, for example, it’s convenient, cheap and you can do it in your own time. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a form of talking therapy which focuses on how you think about the things going on in your life – your thoughts, images, beliefs and attitudes - and how this impacts on the way you behave and deal with emotional problems. It then looks at how you can change any negative patterns of thinking or behaviour that may be causing you difficulties. In turn, this can change the way you feel.
Myth 8: You can’t help someone with a mental health illness
Not true. There are lots of simple, everyday ways you can support someone who has a mental health problem. Listening to them talk and reminding the other person that you are there and care for them can make a big difference. Time to Change have some great tips on ways to help people talk about their mental health problems.
* Please note Benenden Health has not provided any direct medical advice within this article.
To learn about looking after your mental health and wellbeing, why not read our article on 10 ways to help improve your mental health.
About our healthcare
Benenden Health provides affordable private healthcare for everyone. Giving access to our 24/7 Mental Health Helpline from day one of membership, so you can speak to a counsellor at any time of the day or night for immediate emotional support.
